The principal objective of this study was to evaluate the processing value of pork obtained from different breeds reared in Poland. The research material consisted of a part of the m. longissimus thoracis obtained from pigs of different breeds: Duroc, Pietrain, Polish Large White, Polish Landrace and Line 990. It was found that the breed is responsible for significant differences in the quality features of pork. Among the samples analysed, meat from Duroc porkers proved to be of the highest, while that from Pietrain porkers of the lowest quality. Pork from the Duroc breed had the highest content of intramuscular fat, which affected the shear and compression force, two traits having a significant effect on sensory quality. Pork from Pietrain porkers was estimated to have a low processing as well as culinary quality. The significantly lower pH, observed in pork from this breed, resulted in a higher colour lightness and lower water holding capacity. Additionally, such pork demonstrated a hard texture (high shear and compression force). On the basis of the study results one may state that programmes aiming at the improvement of pork quality in Poland should include a wider use of the Duroc and limit the use of the Pietrain breed.

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